Heart-Stopping Finish: Wake Forest Edges UNC 67-66 in Thrilling Showdown
In a nail-biting ACC clash that will be remembered for years to come, Wake Forest delivered a stunning 67-66 victory over North Carolina on January 21, 2025, at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The game was a testament to the intense rivalry between these two storied basketball programs, with every possession carrying the weight of conference pride and tournament implications.
Cameron Hildreth emerged as the hero for the Demon Deacons, dropping 20 crucial points that proved decisive in the heart-stopping contest. His performance was complemented by Hunter Sallis, who contributed a robust 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds, helping Wake Forest secure their sixth consecutive win of the season.
The game was a tale of two halves, with Wake Forest dramatically transforming their fortunes after a challenging first period. Initially struggling with a mere 29.6% shooting percentage, the Demon Deacons dramatically turned the tables in the second half, shooting an impressive 50% from the field.
A pivotal moment came with just over nine minutes remaining, when Wake Forest unleashed a devastating 10-0 run that gave them a commanding 49-39 lead. This surge proved to be the turning point, breaking the Tar Heels’ spirit and setting the stage for their eventual triumph.
“Our defense, particularly on pick-and-rolls, just wasn’t where it needed to be,” RJ Davis of UNC candidly admitted after the game.
The match was marked by several critical plays that swung the momentum. A controversial foul on Cadeau and a goaltending call on Jalen Washington allowed Wake Forest to extend their lead to 65-56, seemingly putting the game out of reach for the Tar Heels.
Despite a late surge that brought the game to within a single point, UNC could not complete the comeback. The final moments were electrifying, with fans on the edge of their seats, witnessing a classic rivalry showdown that will be discussed for years to come.
The victory significantly boosted Wake Forest’s standing, improving their record to an impressive 15-4 overall and 7-1 in the ACC. Conversely, North Carolina’s record dropped to 12-8 overall and 5-3 in conference play, raising questions about their tournament prospects.
The atmosphere at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum was nothing short of electric. Every possession carried the weight of history, every basket a potential game-changer in this storied rivalry.
Key statistics that defined the game:
- Cameron Hildreth: 20 points
- Hunter Sallis: 14 points, 9 rebounds
- Wake Forest shooting: 50% in second half
- Wake Forest’s sixth consecutive win
Looking ahead, the Tar Heels will seek redemption in their upcoming game against Boston College on January 25, 2025. For Wake Forest, this victory serves as a powerful statement in the highly competitive ACC landscape.
Final Score: Wake Forest 67, North Carolina 66
A game that will be etched in the memories of college basketball fans, proving once again why this rivalry continues to captivate sports enthusiasts across the nation.
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